What side effects can someone expect from the HPV vaccine?

Like with any medicine, some people may have mild side effects after the HPV vaccine.

The most common side effects are:

• A sore arm where the needle went in
• Redness or swelling at the injection site
• An achy arm for the rest of the day

These side effects are normal and show that someone’s body is building protection against HPV.

Less common side effects (affect about 1 in 10 people):

• Feeling sick or nauseous
• Vomiting
• Feeling hot or shivery (fever)

These may be annoying, but they usually go away in a day or two.

Remember, the HPV vaccine offers protection against much more serious health problems.

For more detailed information about side effects, please see this Patient Information Leaflet.